“My name is Erica Johnson, and I am originally from Augusta, Georgia, where I was born to Charles and Ellen Goode, both of whom served as soldiers. I am a proud graduate of Georgia Southern University—go Eagles!—where I earned my degree. I began my teaching career in 2007 at Burke County High School and have taught math throughout my entire career. In 2023, I began teaching here at Swainsboro High School. Education runs in my family, as my sister, Felicia Goode, is also a certified math teacher. I am married to Cedric Johnson, who is also an educator and teaches at Burke County Middle School. Together we have two beautiful children: Cedric Jr., who is in 6th grader at Swainsboro Middle, and Candace, who is in kindergarten at Swainsboro Primary. My family is grateful to be part of such a supportive school community.”
Miss Johnson was chosen as the 2025-2026 Swainsboro High School Teacher of the Year. She began teaching at Swainsboro High School in 2023 and is currently a Math Teacher. She also served as a Beta Club Sponsor. Mrs. Johnson previously taught at Burke County High School, where she served as a Math Teacher, Cheer Coach, and Georgia State Beta Club Sponsor.
Mrs. Johnson has close to 20 years of teaching experience. Throughout her career, she has received several honors, including being named Georgia State Beta Club Sponsor for four years, Teacher of the Year (2011) at Burke County High School, STAR Teacher (2013), and 2026 Teacher of the Year at Swainsboro High School.
“I never really felt confident in math until 11th grade, when my teacher, Mrs. Anderson, proved me wrong about myself. She opened my mind to math and encouraged me by allowing me to teach the class occasionally, which helped me discover a genuine love for teaching. Because of her encouragement and the way she completely transformed my attitude toward math in such a short time, she inspired me to become the math teacher I am today.” stated Mrs. Johnson.
When asked what she would like to say about her school and staff, Mrs. Johnson commented, “I don’t know if they truly understand how awesome they are. I have the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated, passionate educators I have ever known. Their commitment to students, their support of one another, and their constant willingness to go above and beyond is truly inspiring. I respect them tremendously and am grateful to be part of such an incredible school and staff.”
Outside of teaching, Mrs. Johnson enjoys crafting and shopping, but her favorite thing of all is spending quality time with her family. She loves being involved in and supporting her husband and children in their extracurricular activities and hobbies, whether that means attending events, cheering them on, or simply being present for the moments that matter most. Those experiences allow Mrs. Johnson to recharge and remind her of the importance of balance, family, and making meaningful memories together.
What have you found most rewarding in your career?
Johnson: What I have found most rewarding in my career is watching students develop a confidence and appreciation for math…especially those who begin the year telling me how much they hate math or believe they aren’t good at it. Seeing that shift in mindset, hearing them have meaningful mathematical conversations, and watching them experience success is incredibly rewarding. Those moments remind me why I chose this profession and why I continue to do what I do every day.
Do you feel that each of your students have left a lasting impression on you?
Johnson: Absolutely. Each of my students has left a lasting impression on me. I am still in contact with many of my former students, and it is incredible to see the things they are out there accomplishing in the world. From chefs and engineers to authors and even professional athletes, their successes continually amaze me. In many ways, my students have taught me just as much as I have taught them, and I carry those lessons with me throughout my career.
What advice would you like to give to new or upcoming educators?
Johnson: Perseverance is key in this profession. My advice to new or upcoming educators would be that if you truly feel called to this important work, understand that—just like in life—there will be challenges and trials along the way. However, the impact you make on students and the rewards that come from seeing them grow far outweigh those difficult moments.
How does it make you feel to see the success that many of your previous students have become (if you’ve been teaching for 12+ years)?
Johnson: Seeing the success of my former students makes me incredibly proud and fulfilled. It reminds me that I was able to play a small, but meaningful, role in helping shape their journeys. When I see former students who have become engineers, nurses, welders, and professionals in so many different fields, I am truly impressed by the productive, impactful lives they are leading. I am also continually amazed by the number of former students who have gone into education and are flourishing in the profession. I like to think that I may have had a small influence in inspiring that path as well, and that is something I hold very close to my heart.
If you could tell your past students or future students one thing that you hope will stick with them all throughout life, what would that be?
Johnson: To my past students, I want you to know that you are still important and valuable, and the impact you have on the world continues to matter. To my future students, I want you to know that it is okay to still be a child. You are valuable, you are important, and you have a place in this world. It is my responsibility and privilege to help you get the best possible start as you begin to discover and grow into your own influence on the world.
What’s a favorite memory or some of your favorite memories that you have from your time as an educator?
Johnson: It’s hard to pick just one, because I have so many favorite memories from every year I’ve taught, and I truly cherish them all. From cheering on students at football games to attending Beta conventions, and from moments in my classroom where students light up with understanding, each memory holds a special place in my heart. I am grateful for these experiences and look forward to creating even more memories that will stay with me forever.
